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Belgian First Division wrap: Genk shoot to top spot

South African defender Calvin Ngcongca put Genk on top of the Belgian First Division's championship playoffs as they defeated Lokeren 2-1.

Ngcongca headed home the winning goal in the 84th minute as Genk came from behind after visiting Lokeren had led 1-0 at half-time.

Genk moved above Anderlecht on goal difference in the championship-deciding playoffs in Belgium with both teams on 35 points.

Lokeren took the lead in the 20th minute on Saturday when Killian Overmeire picked out Benjamin Mokulu Tembe at the back post and the 23-year-old winger rose above his marker to head the ball into the net.

But five minutes after the hour mark, Genk were level thanks to Glynor Plet's front-post header from Thomas Buffel's cross.

Genk completed their comeback with six minutes remaining when Plet headed Jelle Vossen's cross back across goal to Ngcongca and the 25-year-old right-back provided the decisive touch.

Anderlecht can move two points above Genk if they knock off Club Brugge on Sunday.

In the UEFA Europa League playoffs, Gent and Sporting Charleroi both came from behind to maintain their leads in their respective groups.

Midfielder Herve Kage scored the winner for Gent as they triumphed 2-1 away to Lierse, while left-winger Onur Kaya notched the equaliser for Charleroi in their 1-1 draw with Waasland-Beveren.

Meanwhile, Kortrijk thumped Mons 3-0 and Mechelen won by the same margin away to OH Leuven.

Gent lead Group A by two points ahead of Kortrijk, while Mechelen trail Group B leaders Charleroi by a point.

In the relegation playoffs, Cercle Brugge moved into pole position to remain in the Belgian First Division with a 2-1 win over Beerschot.

Cercle Brugge lead Beerschot on goal difference with two games remaining between the two clubs.